Belmont University Research Symposium (BURS)

Publication Date

Winter 4-3-2024

College

Music and Performing Arts, College of

Department

Theatre and Dance, Department of

BURS Faculty Advisor

Carla Lahey

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Abstract

This paper explores the gender dynamics within Kabuki theatre through the examination of the play Narukami. Kabuki is a theatre style that was originated by women, but it quickly excluded them in favor of using men to portray female characters. This study delves into the relevance of these female characters to modern non-male identifying performers and challenges the traditional casting norms. Looking to the onnagata role, which is the role of a male actor playing a woman onstage, the paper examines how gender is represented within the existing practice of Kabuki. For example, the character of Teama in Narukami is a strong, intelligent woman who is portrayed as the villain, but she could easily read as the hero in a modern context. The author proposes a reinterpretation of Kabuki practices in Narukami by casting no male actors and exploring femininity and power through a new interpretation. Ultimately, the study aims to reclaim truthful portrayals of characters and broaden the inclusivity of Kabuki theatre.

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